JACKSON (AP) — The Mississippi Department of Archives and History has awarded $3 million to 26 preservation and restoration projects across the state, including two in Natchez.

Auburn Kitchen Dependency was awarded $157,688 for roof repair and interior restoration, and Natchez Institute was awarded $134,000 for installation of a fire suppression system.

The Community Heritage Grant program helps preserve and restore historic courthouses and schools and, in Certified Local Government communities, other historic properties. Over the life of the program, the department has awarded more than $27 million in Community Heritage Preservation grants to 170 projects.

“Although there are always more requests than funds available, we have been able to give much-needed assistance to communities across the state,” said Jim Woodrick, MDAH’s historic preservation director.

The grants are paid on a reimbursable basis upon the successful completion of the entire project or at the time of the completion of pre-established phases of the project. The money goes to buildings that have been designated Mississippi Landmarks.

Woodrick said the MDAH’s board of trustees in reviewing the applications attempts to balance the geographical distribution of grant awards

Others awarded include the following:

• Amite County Courthouse, Liberty, $181,736 for restoration of original courtroom and exterior.
• Port Gibson City Hall, 166,280 for repair of roof and interior plaster.